Face2News/Sri Anandpur Sahib

 Aiming to involve the youth energy in the sports to wean them away from habit forming drugs, Harjeet Singh Grewal, National President of the National Gatka Association of India and Joint Director of the Department of Information and Public Relations, Punjab, emphasized the significant role of traditional sports in steering youth away from drugs and promoting mental and physical well-being. Speaking at the inaugural day of the Punjab Heritage Games, organized by the Rupnagar District Administration at historic Charn Ganga Stadium, Sri Anandpur Sahib, Grewal highlighted how these sports are inspiring the younger generation to embrace their cultural roots and prioritize self-discipline.

The heritage sports witnessed a vibrant display of traditional martial art Gatka Demonstrations, Gatka Stick-Farrie contests, archery, turban tying competitions and tent pegging. The event also showcased Punjab’s rich cultural heritage through Luddi, Bhangra, Giddha and other traditional performances, captivating the audience. Turban-tying competitions drew enthusiastic participation from both boys and girls, while Dhadhi and Kavishri performances kept the spectators enthralled.

Gatka promoter Harjeet Grewal informed that the growing popularity of Gatka game, both in India and abroad, has sparked renewed interest in the traditional sports. These games not only preserve Punjab’s martial traditions but also instill a sense of pride and self-defense among the youth. He stressed that such events play a crucial role in connecting the younger generation with their rich cultural legacy and fostering a drug-free, healthy lifestyle.

The first day of the competition concluded with prize distributions to the winners, marking a successful start to the heritage games. Grewal expressed hope that such initiatives will continue to inspire youth to stay rooted in their traditions while embracing a disciplined and fulfilling life